Zika

Zika is a virus that is thought to spread to people through mosquito bites; there has also been at least one documented case of sexual transmission. The illness is usually mild, with symptoms lasting from several days to one week. About one in five people infected with Zika virus develop symptoms. Hospitalization is not common. Zika virus has been found in Mexico, several countries in Central and South America, and several islands in the Caribbean including Puerto Rico. A number of imported cases were recently diagnosed in the United States.

How Does Zika Virus Spread?

Zika virus is thought to be primarily transmitted through the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes, the same mosquitoes that spread chikungunya and dengue. These mosquitoes are aggressive daytime biters, but also bite at night. Mosquitoes become infected when they bite a person already infected with the virus. Infected mosquitoes can then spread the virus to other people through bites. It can also be transmitted from a pregnant mother to her baby during pregnancy or around the time of birth. There is a documented case of transmission of the Zika virus through sexual contact.

Who Is at Risk?

Anyone who is living in or traveling to an area where Zika virus is found who has not already been infected is at risk for infection, including pregnant women. Zika virus also spreads through sexual contact.

How Is Zika Virus Infection Diagnosed?

If a person develops symptoms, a healthcare provider may order blood tests to look for Zika virus or other similar viral diseases like dengue or chikungunya. If you have recently traveled, tell your healthcare provider.

How Can Providers Limit the Spread of Zika Virus Infection?

No vaccine exists to prevent Zika virus infection.

Mosquitoes that spread the virus bite mostly during the day.

Make sure there is no standing water near your center or play areas.

Dress children in clothes that cover arms and legs when they're going outside.

Stay in places with air conditioning or that use window and door screens to keep mosquitoes outside.

Use EPA-registered insect repellents.

Follow label instructions

Reapply as directed

If you are using sunscreen, apply that first then put on the insect repellent.

How Does Zika Virus Spread?

Zika virus is thought to be primarily transmitted through the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes, the same mosquitoes that spread chikungunya and dengue. Mosquitoes become infected when they bite a person already infected with the virus. Infected mosquitoes can then spread the virus to other people through bites. Zika virus can also be transmitted from a pregnant mother to her baby during pregnancy or around the time of birth. There is evidence that the Zika virus can be sexually transmitted.

Who Is at Risk?

Anyone who is living in or traveling to an area where Zika virus is found who has not already been infected is at risk for infection, including pregnant women. Zika virus also spreads through sexual contact.

How Is Zika Virus Infection Diagnosed?

See your healthcare provider if you develop symptoms (fever, rash, joint pain, red eyes). If you have recently traveled, tell your healthcare provider. Your healthcare provider may order blood tests to look for Zika virus infection or other similar viral diseases like dengue or chikungunya.

Should a Child Infected with Zika Virus be excluded from Head Start or Child Care?

Zika virus does not spread from casual contact with others. As usual, children should remain out of the center if they have a fever.

How to Stop the Spread of Zika Virus?

No vaccine exists to prevent Zika virus infection.

Mosquitoes that spread the virus bite mostly during the day.

Dress children in clothes that cover arms and legs when they're going outside.

Stay in places with air conditioning or that use window and door screens to keep mosquitoes outside.

Use EPA-registered insect repellents.

Follow label instructions

Reapply as directed

If you are using sunscreen, apply that first then put on the insect repellent.

Spray insect repellent on your hands then put it on your child's face.